Definition

1. Noun:
   • A taxonomic infraorder of decapod crustaceans: "Astacura" is a scientific term referring to an infraorder within the order Decapoda. This group primarily includes freshwater crayfish and some lobster-like marine crustaceans.

Usage

• The term "Astacura" is used almost exclusively in scientific contexts, particularly in zoology, taxonomy, and biology.
• It is a formal classification name and is not used in everyday conversation.

Examples

• Noun:
  • The study focused on the evolutionary history of the infraorder Astacura.
  • Freshwater crayfish belong to Astacura, while true lobsters are classified under a different infraorder.

Advanced Usage

• In taxonomic hierarchy: The term is used to specify a precise level of biological classification (Infraorder) below the order (Decapoda) and above the superfamily.
  • The infraorder Astacura contains the superfamilies Astacoidea and Parastacoidea.

Variants and Related Words

• Astacuran (adj): Pertaining to or characteristic of the infraorder Astacura.
  • The researcher studied astacuran morphology.

Synonyms

• Crayfish infraorder: A descriptive synonym, though less precise scientifically.
• Nephropoidea (in part): This is a related but distinct superfamily name for marine clawed lobsters, which are sometimes confused with astacurans. They are not true synonyms but represent a different taxonomic grouping.

Notes on Meaning

• The primary and essentially sole meaning of "Astacura" is the taxonomic group. It does not have idiomatic meanings or phrasal verbs.
• The common name "crayfish" refers to the animals within this group but is not a direct synonym for the taxonomic term "Astacura" itself. "Astacura" is the name of the category.

Noun

1. crayfish